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Inositol Phosphoglycans

Meaning

Inositol Phosphoglycans (IPGs) are a family of complex carbohydrate molecules derived from the hydrolysis of glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI) anchors, which are found on the outer surface of cell membranes. These molecules function as important second messengers in cellular signaling pathways, notably acting as mediators for insulin action. IPGs are thought to play a role in regulating glucose metabolism and lipid synthesis, and their dysregulation has been implicated in conditions characterized by insulin resistance, such as Type 2 Diabetes and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). They represent a crucial, yet complex, component of the intracellular communication network.